How to Get a Job on a Superyacht
Working on a superyacht is one of the most exciting and rewarding career paths in the luxury hospitality industry. Whether you want to become a yacht chef, stewardess, deckhand, or engineer, this guide covers everything you need to know to start and grow your career at sea.
How do I start a Career in Yachting?
Breaking into the superyacht industry requires preparation, certifications, and a strong first impression.
Step-by-step:
- Get the required certifications (see below)
- Create a professional yacht CV
- Register with yacht recruitment agencies
- Apply for entry-level roles (daywork, junior crew)
- Network in key yachting hubs (Antibes, Palma, Fort Lauderdale)
- Most people start with no prior yacht experience, but relevant hospitality or culinary experience helps significantly.
What are the required Certifications for Yacht Jobs
To work legally on a yacht, you’ll need a few essential certifications:
Mandatory:
- STCW Basic Safety Training
- ENG1 Medical Certificate
Recommended (depending on role):
- Food hygiene certificate (for chefs)
- Powerboat Level 2 (for deckhands)
- Silver Service training (for stewardesses)
?? Without STCW and ENG1, you will not be hired.
What are the Superyacht Crew Roles? - Explained
Understanding roles helps you choose the right career path.
Interior Crew
- Stewardess / Chief Stewardess
Focus: guest service, housekeeping, service standards
Deck Crew
- Deckhand / Bosun
Focus: maintenance, navigation support, watersports
Galley (Kitchen)
- Yacht Chef
Focus: high-end cuisine, provisioning, menu planning
Engineering
- Engineer
Focus: technical systems, maintenance
How to start a Super Yacht Chef Career (High-Demand Role)
Yacht chefs are among the most sought-after professionals in the industry.
Requirements:
- Strong culinary background
- Ability to cook multiple cuisines
- Adaptability (guest preferences change constantly)
Salary range:
- Junior chef: €3,000–€5,000/month
- Head chef: €6,000–€12,000+/month
Creativity + consistency = long-term success.
How to Write a Yacht CV (That Gets You Hired)
Your CV is your most important tool.
Key tips:
- Keep it 1–2 pages
- Include a professional photo
- Highlight relevant experience (hospitality, culinary, service)
- Add certifications clearly
- Tailor it for each role
Common mistakes:
- Generic CVs
- Poor formatting
- Missing certifications
How do I get my First Yacht Job?
Getting your first role is the hardest step.
Proven strategies:
- Dock walking (introducing yourself to yachts in person)
- Daywork (short-term trial jobs)
- Recruitment agencies
- Networking with crew
Persistence matters — many candidates apply for weeks before landing their first role.
What are the Superyacht Salaries & Career Progression options?
Yachting offers excellent earning potential with low expenses.
Entry-level:
Mid-level:
Senior roles:
Additional benefits:
- Tips (can be significant)
- Accommodation included
- Travel opportunities
What are the Common Mistakes to Avoid?
Avoid these if you want to succeed:
- Applying without certifications
- Poor CV presentation
- Lack of flexibility
- Unrealistic expectations
- Not networking
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience to work on a yacht?
No, but hospitality or culinary experience gives you a strong advantage.
How long does it take to get a yacht job?
Anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on timing and persistence.
Is yachting a good long-term career?
Yes — many professionals build long-term careers with high earnings and global travel.
Where are the main yachting hubs?
- Antibes (France)
- Palma de Mallorca (Spain)
- Fort Lauderdale (USA)
Final Advice
The superyacht industry is competitive, but highly rewarding for those who are prepared and persistent.
Focus on:
- Certifications first
- Strong CV
- Networking
- Consistency in applications
If you approach it professionally, you can build a high-income, travel-rich career.